This deciduous shrub is native to most areas in the eastern and central regions of the United States. 
It can tolerate flood conditions and standing water for short periods of time. The Buttonbush would be a good addition to a rain garden or low area in your landscape. It provides great erosion control around shorelines as well.
**This shrub is a great native alternative to the invasive butterfly bush!**
Growth Habits & Characteristics
•Type: Deciduous shrub
•Height: Typically grows 6 to 10 feet tall, though it can reach greater heights in optimal conditions
       •Light: Full sun to partial shade
•Spread: Forms a rounded, bushy shape with a moderate spread
•Habitat: Prefers wet soils and is commonly found in swamps, marshes, along stream banks, and other moist areas
•Flowers: Produces unique, globular clusters of small, white to cream-colored flowers during summer, which later give way to small, spherical crimson fruit clusters - blooms June through August
       •       The foliage is poisonous to other animals, making it moderately deer resistant.
•Root System: Features a fibrous, water-adapted root system that helps stabilize wetland soils
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Host Insect
Buttonbush serves as a host plant for the Royal Walnut moth, a giant silk moth and the titan sphinx moth. 
It serves as an important nectar source for a variety of insects:
•Native Bees: The abundant, nectar-rich blooms attract solitary and social bees, which aid in pollination.
•Butterflies: Several butterfly species visit the flowers for nectar, supporting their life cycles in wetland ecosystems.
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Companion Plants
Buttonbush thrives in moist to wet conditions and pairs well with other native wetland species, creating diverse and resilient landscapes. Consider these companions:
•Swamp Milkweed
•Cardinal Flower
•Joe Pye Weed
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Ecological Importance
•Wetland Habitat Enhancement:
Buttonbush is a key component of wetland ecosystems, contributing to the structural diversity and stability of these habitats. Its dense growth helps stabilize soil and reduce erosion along water bodies.
•Pollinator Support:
The nectar-rich flowers are a critical food source for native bees, butterflies, and other beneficial insects, thereby promoting robust pollinator populations.
•Wildlife Resource:
The dense foliage provides cover and nesting habitat for birds and small mammals, while its fruits offer a food source for various wildlife species.
•Water Quality Improvement:
By thriving in wet areas, buttonbush helps filter and cleanse water, contributing to improved water quality in natural and managed wetland areas.